Molecules (Jun 2019)

<i>Rubus ulmifolius</i> Schott as a Novel Source of Food Colorant: Extraction Optimization of Coloring Pigments and Incorporation in a Bakery Product

  • Liliana Primo da Silva,
  • Eliana Pereira,
  • Miguel A. Prieto,
  • Jesus Simal-Gandara,
  • Tânia C.S.P. Pires,
  • Maria José Alves,
  • Ricardo Calhelha,
  • Lillian Barros,
  • Isabel C.F.R. Ferreira

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24112181
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 24, no. 11
p. 2181

Abstract

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(1) Background: Color has been considered to be the flashiest attribute of foodstuffs and researchers have shown a great interest in the extraction of pigmented compounds from vegetal products, with the purpose to provide alternative counterparts to the food industry; (2) Methods: This study aimed to explore Rubus ulmifolius Schott fruits as a potential source of anthocyanins, optimizing the extraction method, evaluating the bioactivity and incorporating the rich extract into a bakery food product; (3) Results: After the extraction optimization, results showed R. ulmifolius fruits to be a great source of anthocyanins, obtaining an amount of 33.58 mg AT/g E, with an extraction yield of 62.08%. The rich anthocyanin extract showed antitumor and antimicrobial potential in some tumor cell lines and strains, respectively, as well as the absence of toxicity; (4) Conclusions: The extract when incorporated in a bakery product showed a good coloring capacity, maintaining the nutritional value, revealing its use to be a great approach for replacing artificial colorants.

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